Auction glossaryAuction Preview: What It Is and How to Use It
An auction preview is a set time before bidding closes when you can see, handle and test lots in person, usually at the auction house or sale site. It's your chance to check condition, measure and look for missing parts, since most auction lots are sold as is, with no returns.
What should you check at an auction preview?
Because lots are sold as is, where is, the preview is your only real inspection. Bring a tape measure, a flashlight and your phone.
- Power on anything electric, if the house allows it.
- Measure furniture and test doors, drawers and joints.
- Note model and serial numbers to look up later.
- Look for missing parts, chargers and accessories.
- Compare what you see with the photos and description.
What if you can't attend the preview?
Study every photo, read the condition notes and ask the house questions before you bid. Grades such as open box, used or for parts, and whether a lot was tested, tell you a lot about the risk. Our guide to inspecting auction items has a fuller checklist.
Questions people ask
Is an auction preview the same as an inspection?
Yes, the terms are used interchangeably. Some houses call it a preview day or open house.
Do online auctions have previews?
Many do, with set hours at the warehouse or sale site before lots close. If yours doesn't, the photos and description are what you're bidding on. On Auktia, an item that arrives materially different from its description can be reported within 7 days.